An Evolving Network Model of Airway Smooth Muscle Crossbridge Dynamics and Length Adaptation

The main driving mechanism in asthmatic attacks is the contraction of airway smooth muscle (ASM). Physiological loading of ASM by normal breathing and deep inspiration has been shown to reduce ASM contractile force. Our research involves the development of a mathematical model to describe the dynamic behavior of ASM. In this model length adaptation is described by an evolving filament network of passive and active elements in parallel with a soft glassy material. Contractile forces are described by the evolving force length characteristics of some of the network links. It is envisaged that the model will bridge the gap between passive ASM dynamics and contractile dynamics. The model will be validated using experimental data from testing of ASM tissues in vitro.